Whilst the Cabinet War Rooms at St James housed the government over WW2 there was a secondary bunker under development 40 ft under sleepy Neasden near Wembley. Codenamed Paddock, this bombproof shelter was strong enough to survive a direct hit had the Battle of Britain been lost – accommodating the entire war cabinet and 200 staff.
The bunker was sold to Network Stadium Housing Association in 1997 who have spent a modest amount on it to stop it flooding. It is in a pretty raw state – really don’t expect any fancy interactive exhibits, you’ll only find the most delicately formed stalactites. It is open a couple of days a year and the next day is looming on the horizon. Worth noting, if you do miss this it is always open over September’s Open House.
To visit on Thursday 3rd May (tours every hour 9am to 4pm) contact Katy Bajina on 020 8782 4239 or katy.bajina@networkhg.org.uk. More information here.
